NEWS DESK
Western Port
Seniors on the move to RSL
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Western Port News
7 February 2024
MAREE Feutrill is the new head of Saltbush, a not-for-profit in Balnarring that has a focus on respite for those that need it. Picture: Supplied
New head for Saltbush MAREE Feutrill was last month made CEO Saltbush Balnarring Beach, a not-for-profit group that provides respite holiday accommodation to families in need and parents with children who have disabilities. Her appointment follows the resignation of Rachel Connor who had been with the organisation for a decade. Feutrill joins Saltbush after spending four years working with remote Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory developing preventative health programs. She is the former area manager for YMCA Camping, and previously led Camp Manyung at Mount Eliza for two decades where she specialised in camping and outdoor education for people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse communities and vulnerable young people. “The stewardship of Saltbush to en-
sure accessibility for those who need it most is one of my key priorities. This will mean focussing on our longterm financial sustainability, while at the same time delivering a service to our clients that provides dignity, hope and respite,” Feutrill said. Saltbush was established in 1989 with a vision to provide short-term holiday accommodation for people from disadvantaged backgrounds including those with disabilities, physical or mental illness, asylum seekers, refugees and families recovering from domestic violence. The organisation, which this year marks its 35th anniversary accommodates more than 1600 people each year for short-term stays in its six purpose-built houses and arranges holiday programs for children to provide a break for struggling parents and carers.
THE bingo and craft groups run by Hastings Seniors Citizens Club will be held each Monday at Hastings RSL in King Street. Dianne Ashton said the use of the RSL had been arranged by Mornington Peninsula Shire while the club waited for the reopening of its own rooms. “Members will no doubt be thrilled to return to Hastings, especially to the RSL as it is a central location,” she said. “We welcome new members to join in the fun and the social interaction. There is no need for you to be lonely and it is a great opportunity for you to meet the locals.” Membership is $5 a year and club activities includes cards, board games, craft, bingo, day trips and local lunches. For details call club president Valerie Morton on 0418 600 464. The bingo and craft groups will be held at the RSL on Monday from midday to 3pm.
